Polylactide/acetylated nanocrystalline cellulose composites prepared by a continuous route: A phase...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) and polylactide (PLA) are promising biomaterials.
• Traditional composite preparation methods can be inefficient and involve multiple steps.
• Improving the interface between NCC and PLA is crucial for enhanced composite properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a continuous process for preparing NCC/PLA composites.
• To investigate the effect of NCC surface acetylation on composite properties.
• To analyze the phase interface structure, rheological, and mechanical behavior of the composites.

Main Methods:

• Developed a continuous process combining NCC extraction, acetylation, and composite preparation.
• Utilized rheological measurements to study flow behavior and percolation.
• Employed atomic force microscopy for nanomechanical analysis of the interface.

Main Results:

• Surface acetylation of NCC significantly improved its affinity with PLA.
• Modified NCC-filled composites exhibited a lower percolation threshold compared to pristine NCC composites.
• The interfacial layer thickening and network structure of modified NCC contributed to improved mechanical properties and self-similarity.

Conclusions:

• The continuous process offers an efficient alternative for NCC/PLA composite preparation.
• NCC surface modification is key to enhancing interfacial adhesion and composite performance.
• The study highlights the importance of interfacial engineering for advanced polymer nanocomposites.